When Supporters' Safety Is Guaranteed By Law No. 11/2022, But 131 Lives Have Been Lost In Kanjuruhan

Kanjuruhan Malang Stadium (Photo via Arema)

JAKARTA - The safety and security of spectators or supporters of sports matches is protected by the state through Law 11 of 2022 concerning Sports.

"We regret the incident that took place at Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang Regency, East Java, which caused many lives to be lost and residents injured, including women and children," said DPR Speaker Puan Maharani, Monday 10 October.

The Kanjuruhan tragedy occurred after the football match that brought together Arema FC vs Persebaya on October 1 last. A total of 131 people died as a result of the stampede after the police on duty fired water gas to disperse the crowd.

Later, the National Police admitted to using expired tear gas during a riot at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang. However, it is considered harmless.

The spectators who did not participate in the riots even became victims. In fact, Article 54 of the Sports Law stipulates the obligation for organizers to pay attention to the rights of spectators in every sports championship.

"One of the rights of spectators or supporters that must be fulfilled by the organizers is regarding the guarantee of safety and security. That's why we deeply regret this incident," continued Puan.

In addition to security and safety issues, the rights of spectators of sports matches also include obtaining facilities according to the value of the entrance ticket. The DPR hopes that the government will enforce the regulation by immediately issuing a derivative regulation from the Sports Law.

"Especially about the procedures for organizing and security rights for spectators and supporters," said Puan.

The rules regarding supporters are also contained in Article 55 of the Sports Law, ranging from their roles to their rights. In that regulation, supporters are entitled to legal protection, both inside and outside of sporting events.

Supporters are also entitled to receive guidance from the sports supporters' organization or legal entity that houses them. Supporters also have the right to have priority opportunities to own a club through share ownership in accordance with the provisions of the legislation, and have the right to provide direct or indirect support, both inside and outside of sports matches.

"So I ask firmly that the mandate of the law be implemented," explained Puan.

The former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture also reminded the importance of paying attention to the protection of women and children in organizing sports competitions. Moreover, said Puan, not a few female viewers and children were victims of the Kanjuruhan Tragedy.

"From the Kanjuruhan incident, all relevant parties must evaluate the total security system, procedures, and facilities for both players and spectators," said the granddaughter of the proclaimer of Indonesia Bung Karno.

Puan also requested that trauma healing be provided for the victims of the Kanjuruhan Tragedy. According to her, the victims of the incident were not the only ones who suffered physical injuries.

“We must also think about the inner wounds of mothers, fathers and families who lost their children and relatives. This is important so as not to leave a deep trauma that will have an impact on the progress of Indonesian football," concluded Puan.